Grape Molasses Cookies (Moustokouloura)
User Reviews
3.7
Grape Molasses Cookies (Moustokouloura)
Description
The Grape Molasses Cookies combine grape molasses with olive oil and honey, bringing natural sweetness and moisture that give the cookies a soft yet structured texture. Brandy (or an alternative spirit such as red wine or Raki) and orange juice enhance the flavor complexity, while orange zest adds brightness. Ground cinnamon and cloves provide gentle warmth and spice. Baking soda and baking powder help the cookies rise slightly during baking.
The dough is soft and slightly sticky but manageable for shaping. Cookies are formed into rings by squeezing air out and melding the dough ends, then baked until they turn a uniform honey-brown color. The slow bake develops deep flavors and a tender crumb that is characteristic of these traditional Greek treats.
These cookies are commonly enjoyed alongside a cup of Greek coffee, making for a cozy and flavorful snack. Their textured sweetness and aromatic spices also make them suitable for sharing during festive occasions or gifting.
Ingredients
- 200 ml grape molasses ( see how to make here or buy online here)
- 250 ml (1 cup) olive oil
- 100 grams (⅓ cup) honey
- 2 tablespoons brandy or red wine or Raki (Tsipouro)
- 60 ml (¼ cup) orange juice
- 1 orange zest
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon cloves ground
- 650-700 grams (5½ to 5¾ cups) all-purpose flour
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 175°C / 350°F.
- Combine wet ingredients (grape molasses, honey, olive oil, orange juice, brandy) in a mixing bowl using a whisk.
- Add cinnamon, cloves, orange zest, and baking soda. Whisk until uniform.
- Combine flour and baking powder. Gradually incorporate into the wet ingredients. The dough will be soft and slightly sticky, but shapeable without leaving fragments on your hands.
- Line a sheet pan with parchment paper.
- Shape. Take a piece of the dough (about 30-40 grams) and squeeze it in your hands to remove excess air. Shape it into a ball and then into a cord (about 10-12cm). Stick the edges together to create a ring. Repeat the process for the remaining dough and place the cookies on the pan with 2 fingers space in between.
- Bake for about 15 to 20 minutes until the cookies get a honey-brown color all over.
- Serve with a cup of Greek coffee!
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 28cookies
Amount Per Serving
Calories 208 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 1cookie | |
| Calories | 208kcal | 10% |
| Carbohydrates | 29g | 10% |
| Protein | 2g | 4% |
| Fat | 9g | 14% |
| Saturated Fat | 1g | 5% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1g | 6% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 7g | 35% |
| Sodium | 44mg | 2% |
| Potassium | 196mg | 4% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Sugar | 11g | 22% |
| Vitamin A | 7IU | 0% |
| Vitamin C | 2mg | 2% |
| Calcium | 33mg | 3% |
| Iron | 2mg | 11% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.